DeRidder Plant Wins Governor’s Prestigious Lantern Award
The Louisiana Board of Commerce and Industry selected Ampacet Corporation to receive the 2000 Lantern Award for district five. Annually, only seven other Louisiana manufacturers are recognized for their business achievements and community involvement in the state.
The board particularly commended Ampacet’s achievements and contributions to the state’s economy." Louisiana is fortunate to have Ampacet as a valuable industrial citizen,’ said Kevin P. Reilly, Secretary of Economic Development.
Ampacet’s history in Louisiana, as well as its products and service, stood out among the field of nominees. Moreover, its L record of plant productivity, employee growth and overall sales and expansion played a key role in the board’s decision. The company’s demonstration of community involvement by both its membership and contributions to civic groups also elevated Ampacet prominence in the eyes of the board.
Cecil Thompson, Ampacet’s Manufacturing Manager for Louisiana and Texas, and winners from the other seven districts were honored at a luncheon at the Camelot Club as guests of Bell South. Later that evening, they received the award at the reception at the Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge. "We are proud of what we have accomplished here in Louisiana," said Cecil. "Its most satisfying for Ampacet to be recognized for the positive effect it has made on the Louisiana economy and the communities in which we live."
In order for a company to be considered for the Lantern Award, the nominee must be a manufacturer that has been in Louisiana for at least three years. By winning this yea~ Ampacet will not be eligible again for a decade.
Approximately 1000 nominations were sent out at the beginning of the year for each of the eight districts. District five includes the parishes of Beauregard, Allen, Calcasieu, Hefferson Avis and Cameron.
Ampacet received a hand crafted brass lantern. The lantern is made by Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights in New Orleans and paid for by the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Associations.