Corridor firms win Lantern Awards

Three corridor firms are being honored for their excellence in manufacturing and community involvement. Louisiana Economic Development and the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association last night recognized the 2009 Lantern Award winners at a private reception at the Governor’s Mansion. “I want to commend the eight award recipients for their achievements and for their contributions to Louisiana’s economy,” says LED Secretary Stephen Moret. “Their innovation, their workforce and their products strengthen the foundation of our manufacturing base and enhance our competitiveness.” Lantern Award winners are selected based on their contribution to their local community, including employment growth and facility expansion. Each business must also demonstrate sustainability by remaining in operation at least three years prior to the nomination. The 2009 corridor winners are American Sugar Refining Inc./Domino Sugar, Arabi; BASF Corporation, Geismar; and Jon Margeaux, Lake Charles. Louisiana Economic Development launched the Lantern Award program in 1979, and recruited Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association as a partner in 2005. Since its existence, the Lantern Award program has recognized more than 240 Louisiana businesses. Award winners receive lanterns handcrafted by Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights in New Orleans, which have been a trademark of New Orleans since 1945.