Student entries shine the spotlight on coal.

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PIKEVILLE, Ky. — A group of local investors based in Pikeville have officially launched Blue Gem Capital, a new angel investment fund dedicated to supporting companies originating in the Central Appalachian region and businesses conducting substantial operations within the region.

Blue Gem Capital will make equity and equity-like investments in early-stage to mid-sized Main Street and high-growth small businesses. The Fund is designed to cultivate a diverse portfolio of investment opportunities across various industries and stages of growth, with a strong emphasis on regional economic development.

The Fund is currently capitalized at $1.1 million, raised from 14 private investors along with support from Kentucky-based Commonwealth Seed Capital Fund.

Blue Gem Capital is managed by its private investors, who collectively review and approve all investment transactions. The majority of investments will be made within the Central Appalachian region, reinforcing the Fund’s commitment to strengthening local businesses and communities.

Rick West, Chairman of Blue Gem Capital and a longtime regional business leader and investor, emphasized the long-term vision behind the initiative.

“Forming a fund like this has been a goal of our investor group for some time,” said West. “We believe there is tremendous untapped potential in Central Appalachia. Blue Gem Capital is perfectly positioned  to support promising, emerging companies in need of growth capital while also creating meaningful opportunities for community-minded investors to invest back into the region.”

Jessica Bledsoe, Director of Impact Investing at the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, highlighted the importance of expanding access to capital in the region.

“We are fortunate to have a fund like Blue Gem Capital rooted right here in our region,” said Bledsoe. “Access to early-stage capital has historically been one of the biggest barriers facing entrepreneurs in Central Appalachia. This fund represents more than investment dollars. It represents belief in our people, our ideas, and our future. With support from partners like the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Appalachian Investors Alliance (AIA), and SOAR, we are building the infrastructure entrepreneurs need to grow businesses, create jobs, and strengthen our local economy.”

Blue Gem Capital is part of a multi-state network of angel funds managed by the Appalachian Investors Alliance. Through this network, the Fund can leverage shared expertise, co-investment opportunities, and regional collaboration to better support portfolio companies and investors alike.

Entrepreneurs seeking investment and individuals interested in learning more about becoming investors can visit https://bluegemcap.com. Applications and additional information are available online.

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Residents leery of water boards management.

The post Martin County receives $26 million for water problems appeared first on Mountain Top Media.

Site has potential for industrial use, depending on variety of tests and surveys.

The post Rail site in Allen under review appeared first on Mountain Top Media.

PIKEVILLE, KY. — Two primary care physicians at Pikeville Medical Center have been recognized with the UnitedHealthcare Hero Award.

The honors presented to Samuel J. King, MD and Kristi Tackett, DO, celebrate health care professionals who go above and beyond in delivering exceptional care and making a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients and communities.

The UnitedHealthcare Hero Award highlights physicians who demonstrate compassion, innovation and an unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes, exemplifying these qualities through their tireless dedication to patient-centered care and their impact on the Eastern Kentucky region.

“Dr. King and Dr. Tackett represent the very best of our mission at PMC,” said Kansas Justice, Chief Operating Officer at PMC. “Their commitment to excellence, their compassion for patients and their leadership in advancing health care in our region make them truly deserving of this recognition.”

Both physicians have played a vital role in enhancing access to high-quality care and improving the overall health and well-being of the communities PMC serves. Their work reflects clinical excellence and a deep understanding of the unique needs of the Appalachian population.

“Every patient has a story, and it is our responsibility to listen, understand and provide care that meets them where they are. This recognition is not just a reflection of my service, but of the incredible team around us,” said King. “Under the continued leadership and guidance of the Board of Directors and Administration at PMC, our dedicated staff plays a vital role in providing every patient with compassionate, high-quality care, and I am honored to serve alongside them each day.”

“It is an honor to be recognized, and a reminder that the care we provide truly makes a difference. This award reflects the collective effort of our physicians, nurses and support staff who go above and beyond for every patient,” added Tackett. “Recognition like this from UnitedHealthcare highlights the importance of serving with purpose and remaining committed to improving the lives of those in our care.”

Pikeville Medical Center congratulates Dr. King and Dr. Tackett on this well-deserved honor and thanks them for their continued dedication to serving patients with excellence and compassion.

For more information about Pikeville Medical Center, visit pmcky.org.

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Summit offers education to students and business owners.

The post BSCTC offers cyber-security summit appeared first on Mountain Top Media.

First-ever observance celebrates contributions of local news.

The post Today is Local News Day appeared first on Mountain Top Media.

500 positions available to job seekers.

The post Mega Hiring Event at Pike County Library appeared first on Mountain Top Media.

Those interested can register to attend at https://forms.office.com/r/CdeJFbreqU

The post Recreation Economies for Rural Communities workshop appeared first on Mountain Top Media.

Orascom Group will be part of the Invest 606 Showcase on April 2.

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