The Limestone County Economic Development Association held its annual meeting at the Alabama Veteran’s Museum and Archive Thursday, May 16, to celebrate its 70th year of service to one of the quickest growing regions in the state.

Stefania Jones, the manager of government relations for the Alabama Department of Commerce, filled in as the keynote speaker at the event after Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, failed to make it.

“It was an incredible honor to be able to join the LCEDA for their 70th anniversary, and to see what a good regional economic development partner looks like in the state,” Jones said. “Limestone County has been one of the fastest growing counties in the state for four out of the last five years, and when you have that you need a lot of opportunities for employment and that’s exactly what LCEDA does.”

Jones had a lot of high praise for the region, noting how the LCEDA and other efforts to grow Limestone County have been used as examples for the state to follow.

“Limestone County is always looking to create and expand jobs, and they really do a great job at balancing employment opportunities with lifestyle endeavors,” Jones said. “This region is constantly looking to increase the quality of living here, and raise the value of working here over other areas.”

Outside of the keynote speech from Jones, the annual meeting followed normal traditions by recognizing special guests such as Mayor Ronnie Marks and county commissioner Colin Daly, while also commemorating LCEDA lifetime members.

Bethany Shockney, the current president and CEO of LCEDA, was one of the main speakers of the afternoon, introducing various guests and award recipients throughout the event. Shockney was also featured in a 70 year reflection video with the two other former CEOs of the LCEDA.

“The idea that this organization has been around for as long as it has, with the impact it has had, was humbling to me,” Shockney said. “We know we are on people’s radar, both with the state and consultants from all over the country.”

Shockney reciprocated the sentiment of Jones, detailing the growth of the region and how they want to continue to flourish with future endeavors in Limestone County.

“All of the incredible projects and plans we have already accomplished speaks to this community and the growth it has witnessed over the years,” Shockney said. “We are a hotbed for activity and businesses, and we will continue to grow that appeal with the help of our dedicated workforce and excellent education programs.”