[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 169 (Thursday, October 11, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Pages S6805-S6806]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING KENTUCKY HIGHLANDS INVESTMENT CORPORATION

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I would like to take a moment to 
recognize the 50th anniversary of one of the great economic development 
organizations in my home State, the Kentucky Highlands Investment 
Corporation, KHIC. Throughout 22 counties in southeastern Kentucky, 
this community development institution provides the necessary 
assistance to groups by bringing new opportunities to the region.
  Since its creation in 1968, the KHIC claims a remarkable record of 
financial investment and job creation. In fulfillment of its founding 
mission, the organization has invested more than $350 million and 
helped create or maintain approximately 22,000 jobs. A significant 
amount of the KHIC's success has occurred in Promise Zones, federally 
designated regions of high poverty. I applaud organizations that are 
able to encourage economic growth in the areas of greatest need, and I 
am especially proud of the KHIC for doing just that.
  To accomplish its goals, the KHIC focuses its efforts on four main 
areas: providing loans and giving equity investments, building housing 
solutions and driving innovation. The KHIC collaborates with 
experienced entrepreneurs and community leaders who offer guidance and 
support to a wide variety of small businesses in this region, and it is 
easy to see the half-century of success that has resulted.
  I have proudly supported the KHIC's work in its applications for 
competitive Federal grants. Much to my delight, their programming has 
been awarded Federal grant resources to bolster its successful work in 
Kentucky. I will continue to work with the KHIC and other groups to 
make a difference in our Commonwealth.

[[Page S6806]]

  It is my privilege to congratulate the men and women of the KHIC for 
their golden anniversary. Under the leadership of the chairman of the 
board of directors William Singleton and president and CEO Jerry 
Rickett, the people of southeastern Kentucky have strong advocates 
working tirelessly on their behalf. In particular, I want to thank 
Jerry Rickett for his many years of outstanding work for the people of 
southeastern Kentucky. I would like to extend my sincere 
congratulations to the KHIC and its staff and supporters, as the 
organization celebrates 50 years of accomplishment. Along with my 
Senate colleagues, I wish them the best and look forward to the KHIC's 
many future successes.

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