Economic Development Group Poised To Roll Out ‘Bourbon’ Barrels

Playing off the Bourbon name and attempting to add landmarks throughout the city, the Bourbon Economic Development Group is poised to roll out eight ‘Bourbon’ barrels that will be placed throughout the city.

The barrels were built at McGinnis Wood Products and measure 22 inches around and three feet high. Four of them were purchased by the group and the other four were donated by McGinnis.

Jordan Ray, one of the group members, said they went around the city with Mayor Danny Skaggs to see the best place to set them up. Ray said the city will be working to create concrete platforms to keep them in place.

The barrels will receive a finish and have ‘Bourbon’ branded into them. The group will be seeking sponsorships from local businesses that have their name plates attached.

The BED has worked the last few years to draw more tourists to Bourbon and have attempted to get more activity going throughout the city.

On Saturday, September 14, BED will host the third annual BBQ with Bourbon event, which includes a pork steak cook-off, live music, vendors and a car show. 

Chuck Ray said Jeff Redhage will again be in charge of the car show and has around 100 participants lined up.

Last year a first for the car show and it was a success. 

SBA Presentation

On Friday, BED members met with officials from the Small Business Administration.

After learning about ways the SBA can help people get their businesses off the ground, BED planned a “lunch and learn” that will be open to the public.

SBA officials will be meeting on Tuesday, May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. with anyone interested in diving into the details of obtaining loans through the SBA.

A presentation will be given on the loan program. Prospective business owners or existing business owners are encouraged to attend.

A location is still to be determined.