SPRINGFIELD — Several local industries were honored May 9 at a reception hosted by the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority.

Representatives from Edwards Interiors, Exley Lumber, Georgia Pacific, Interfor, Omega Steel and Sampco of Georgia received recognition for being in business more than 20 years in Effingham County.

Troy Smith, chairman of the IDA Board, was among many of the local leaders from Effingham County who were there to celebrate these industries.

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to honor these companies who have made a significant investment in our community, and continue to create and maintain quality jobs for our citizens,” Smith said. “Their commitment to our community really means a lot to the IDA and we hope to continue looking for ways to help them be successful in Effingham County.”

In addition to the six companies who received awards, there were 10 industries present who were also thanked and recognized at the event.

“We really enjoyed the event, and meeting other business leaders from our neighboring companies in Effingham County,” said Maria Whitfield, Human Resources leader at DRT America. “This local networking opportunity gave us a chance to learn what other companies do, share contact information and best practices.”

The Effingham County Industrial Development Authority will continue to seek out opportunities to connect existing industries with each other, community leaders, and opportunities to help them succeed and grow in Effingham County. To learn more about economic development in Effingham County, Georgia please visit www.effinghamindustry.com.