The Annual Business and Industry Appreciation Luncheon was held October 28th at the Logan Extension Building. Over 250 community business, industry and government leaders attended the event.

LEAD President, Billy Bingham welcomed the group and introduced the officials in attendance. LEAD Vice President Chris Milam gave the invocation and pledge to the flag.

Tom Harned, LEAD Executive Director commented on economic activity in Logan County over the past year and introduced Fred Mudge, Chairman of RJ Corman Railroad Company who introduced the speaker. The keynote speaker was Stan Lampe, President of Kentuckians for Better Transportation from Louisville. Mr. Lampe presented a ten point check list for Logan County, giving the County very high marks in ten categories including infrastructure, workforce, education, business climate, logistics and transportation... He was presented a copy of “Through My Father’s Eyes” by Edward F. Coffman, Jr. and “Logan County” by Mark Griffin in appreciation.

Billy Bingham and Tom Harned recognized the Adairville Archery Team and the Russellville Little League All Stars and presented each team member a Certificate of Appreciation from LEAD.

Business and Industry Awards for increased investment and employment were presented to Auburn Leather Company, Caldwell Gasket Company, United Satellite Service, and Ventra Plastics.

Awards for increased investment were presented to Amtech and Sensus Precision Die Casting.

The LEAD Corporate Citizen Award went to Lisa Howlett owner of Auburn Leather and Caldwell Gasket for her role in preserving and creating employment in Logan County.

Special Recognition was given to Mrs. Bertha Robertson on behalf of all past and present employees of Auburn Hosiery Mills. Ms. Bertha has 54 years of continuous service with the company and is a wonderful example of the outstanding workforce to be found in Auburn and Logan County. Auburn Hosiery Mills was founded in 1937 in Logan County and is closing its Auburn and Adairville operations this year.