First and foremost, I want to take this opportunity to thank those who made the 50th Anniversary meeting of TEDC held in Memphis, a remarkable success. Thank you Suzie Lusk, Carolyn Davis, Susan Maynor, Kayla Taylor, TEDC Board Members, those who were part of the outstanding video, our sponsors and all those who were able to attend and be a part of this spectacular event. We seem to be on a roll when it comes to our Fall Conference in that each year we surpass our attendance from the previous record year. I think this says a lot about who we are as an organization and the value we place on economic development in the great State of Tennessee.

                                                  

As we look ahead to 2018, we have an opportunity as an organization to play a key role in the economic development future of our state. Whether we are ready or not, the political season is upon us. The election of a new Governor, a U.S. Senator, U.S. Congressmen, state House and Senate seats as well as local races that affect each one of us should be a major area of concern to us all. Each one of us may have a different political view, but we all stand equal in assuring the economic success of where we live, work and play. One of our most important events is the Day on the Hill that we host along with our partners during the legislative session. This next February, it is our hope to be able to conduct a forum for those seeking to be our next Governor and even possibly include those running for the open U.S. Senate seat. It is my hope that we band together as an organization and continue to be the voice of where our state needs to be in order to continue to attract the investment and quality jobs our citizens deserve.

                                                                                               

Also, as we approach the holiday season, it is my wish that you are able to spend the time with your families and enjoy every moment with them. 2017 has been a very tough year for so many in our country and there will be a lot of folks who will miss that opportunity this year. We have so much to be thankful for and too often take for granted things that mean so much.

 

Lastly, on behalf of your Board, we thank you for allowing us to serve in the capacity you have placed upon us. It is our goal to continue to make TEDC the great organization that it has become and be engaged in all aspects of what we are about. Please know if there are things you see we should be doing differently or in addition to, we are willing to do all we can to make it happen.

 

- Robert T. (Bob) Bibb