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V O L . X X I V N O. X X I I I O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 1 8 18 P H O T O / F R E D F I E L D ainebiz: You're a Caribou native who worked in promo- tions and marketing in Texas, in- cluding for the city of Hutto. What brought you back to Caribou? Christina Kane-Gibson: Serving a municipality taught me the impor- tance of clear communication, civic education and citizen participation. I was inspired by my mentors in the city manager's office. It was through them I realized I could contribute to the city of Caribou. Furthermore, I wanted my family to experience life in the County. MB: What are your goals here? CKG: Caribou deserves recognition as a cultural hub with huge economic potential. Goal number one — growing Caribou as a thriving economic engine — is two-fold. I want to help entre- preneurs, new and established, realize their visions in a supportive community. I want to assist local groups like the Caribou Economic Growth Council and the Business Investment Group to incubate fresh business opportunities. e second goal is about further establishing Caribou as a tourism des- tination. We boast four seasons, three nations – America, Canada and the Aroostook Band of Micmacs — two languages, English and French, and one fantastic way of life. Developing a strategy to market it all is a challenge I gladly accept. Having state-level events in Caribou like the Moose Lottery and BikeMaine helps us establish ourselves as a big player in Maine's destination tourism market. MB: Challenges facing Caribou? CKG: Outward migration. We can do more by way of mentorships with local businesses and hands-on training to show County kids that opportunities abound right here. Another challenge is change. Pulling the trigger on new ideas or spending money on an economic endeavor doesn't come without risk. The County calling A new level of energy in Caribou B y L a u R i e s C h R e i B e R Christina Kane-Gibson became the city of Caribou's events and marketing director in spring 2017. Working 60-plus hours a week, she's coordinating programs, seeking grants and communicating with and supporting businesses. Initiatives include creating a downtown development group and coordinating events that bring together businesses and cultural organizations. Christina Kane-Gibson Events and marketing director City of Caribou