PAYING IT FORWARD
» Chris Black
Future
Building
a vibrant
Love of community and family
leads to scholarship
C
hris Black has a philosophy about buildings.
“They’re the bones of a community and
all the other things are attached,” he said,
speaking from his office at Ray Black & Son, named
for his grandfather and father.
The practical, simple beige building in Paducah,
Kentucky, belies the grandeur of the awe-inspiring
spaces the family company has built or restored,
from historic homes and churches to high-tech
hybrid operating rooms. Perhaps the company
motto is a clue as to why: “Building with Integrity
Since 1925.”
The Blacks are known for construction, but their
legacy goes far beyond bricks and mortar.
“We could just build very nice buildings, but
for us, it’s about being in a position to help our
community,” Black said. “Without a healthy heart,
it’s difficult for a small town to survive.”
Through the National Main Street Center and the
Kentucky Main Street Program, the Convention and
continued on page 9
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