West Virginia Executive Winter 2019 | Page 73

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Welcome to Huntington Photo by Huntington Area CVB. Along the Ohio River at the intersection of West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky sits the city of Huntington, the largest inland port in the U.S and second largest city in the Mountain State. This vibrant city has a rich history of riverboat and railroad infrastructure moving lumber and coal toward the west, but its modern economy revolves around education, health care, retail and tourism. The companies that make up these fortifying industries are not only dedicated to employing the people of Huntington and making an economic impact but also supporting the city’s commitment to inclusiveness and revitalization. The Jewel City is in the midst of a renaissance that is being spurred on by its growing number of locally owned businesses, shops and restaurants and the My Huntington movement, a campaign that highlights all the ways natives and visitors Photo by Huntington Area CVB. alike are enjoying the innovation, redevelopment, beauty, community and kindness of the city. The Huntington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is participating in this movement by redefining Huntington’s conference spaces, restaurants, parks and businesses while companies like Edward Tucker Architects and Touma Real Estate Holdings are practicing creative placemaking by identifying spaces and projects that can be renovated, modernized or restored. The team at Edward Tucker Architects is committed to providing its unique architectural perspective to projects throughout the city, while Dr. Joseph Touma of Touma Real Estate has been restoring historic buildings for more than a decade. Touma’s vision for downtown Huntington led national law firm Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough to locate its West Virginia offices to spaces that span five historic buildings across from Pullman Square. Financial experts like Somerville & Company and United Bank are also making a definitive impact in Huntington. Somerville has been in Huntington since 1932 honing its dedication to client and community service while United’s nationally recognized team of volunteers serves local organizations like Branches Domestic Violence Shelter, Golden Girl Group Home, Prestera Center, Recovery Point of Huntington, Gro Huntington, Coalfield Development and the Boys & Girls Club of Huntington. Economic catalysts like Marshall University and the Robert C. Byrd Institute (RCBI) are driving innovation and education in Huntington. RCBI is connecting local manufacturers, suppliers and startups with contracting opportunities while Marshall is educating the future of Huntington and expanding its campuses to become part of the downtown and Fairfield communities. Whether you are looking for a unique food culture, high-quality education, weekend getaway or exciting new place to call home, look no further than Huntington, WV.