Starting things right

Published 8:42 am Friday, August 24, 2018

A community consists not just of the locals who reside in it, but also of the business that operate there.

When an out-of-state company moves into the area, it is always impressive if they reach out to their new surroundings and become a vital part of the neighborhood.

That was the case this week, when HarbisonWalker International opened their new refractories plant in South Point.

CEO Carol Jackson made it a point to show that the company’s investment in Lawrence County goes beyond simply making and shipping their product — though, in this case, it does mean 40 well-paying jobs for local residents.

Following the conclusion of the opening ceremony, Jackson invited Sam Hale, the leader of Boy Scout Troop 106 of Ironton, to the stage.

The Scouts had handled the presentation of colors for the event. Jackson expressed the company’s gratitude for the Scouts’ duty, and presented them with a donation check.

She then did the same for the South Point High marching band, who opened the ceremony with patriotic music.

After these checks were handed out, it was also announced that the company had handed the deed to a portion of their lot to neighboring South Point Christian Church.

The church had been leasing the land for $1 annually to use it for parking, but now it is theirs.

These were encouraging signs for the company’s first official day of business and showed a willingness to support the community their new facility hosts.

We commend Jackson and HWI for this and hope a strong relationship with South Point and Lawrence County will continue.