Both Paul and Rick for the past three years and more have provided dedication, leadership, and direction for the RRGCC. I feel it's a different organization today than it was when it began, although the heart of the organization is and will remain the same: keep climbing open. The RRGCC has certainly evolved to a more open and collaborative group of people, and that was achieved through the years with both Rick and Paul on board (along with others). I'm excited for the new generation of leadership and for what the future holds for our community.
When it became clear that the RRGCC would be able to pay off the PMRP mortgage, Rick Bost challenged the Board to make a conscious decision on whether to pursue the purchase of additional land or not. In the end the vote was yes. Anyone who has sought to buy a home knows what it takes to find the right place and the right deal. Despite a bunch of effort on Rick’s part, nothing came together by the end of his term. Then Paul took the helm and ran with it. When Paul presented the Miller Fork opportunity to the Board I was a bit weary. But after Paul and Dave Jr. drug Dr. Bob and I on a nine mile bushwhack around the property on a chilly day this past February I was psyched! I have personally purchased four homes and have been involved in a number of commercial real estate transactions through work. I have to say that the MFRP purchase was one of the more dicey real estate deals I have ever been involved with.
Paul’s leadership and perseverance was crucial to the MFRP purchase. I know that Paul has spent many long hours working on RRGCC business during his term on the BOD and has taken time off work during his term as President to attend Beattyville-Lee County Chamber of Commerce meetings. Paul, it has been a pleasure working with you over these last six years and thank you for all the time and effort you have put into furthering the RRGCC mission. Hopefully you can find some time to climb now and I will miss your hat.
"Be responsible for your actions and sensitive to the concerns of other visitors and land managers. ... Your reward is the opportunity to climb in one of the most beautiful areas in this part of the country." John H. Bronaugh