The Pike County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development District honored Lynn Wells, Summit Plastics and the McComb-Pike County Airport during its annual legislative fish fry Thursday night at Percy Quin State Park.
Wells, owner of Gulf/South Gallery on Fifth Avenue in McComb, was named Small Business Person of the Year. Charles Dowdy introduced Wells not only as a longtime businesswoman and 10-year chamber member, but also a breast cancer survivor, a 24-year Pike County election commissioner and mother and grandmother.
Wells, who was caught by surprise, said, “My business is doing good, and I give God the glory for that.”
Entergy customer service manager Jim Hedges presented the Continuing Service Award to the local airport, with airport board president Dr. Larry Stewart accepting the honor.
The airport has come a long way since its beginnings on Rawls Drive in McComb, now a busy business and medical office area.
The Fernwood facility has continued to grow, receiving some $4 million in grants, allowing it to add state-of-the-art equipment, expand its runway and undertake many other improvements. It continues to be one of the first places many out-of-town business executives see when visiting Pike County.
“They’ve been the best welcome mat for Pike County. … We’re trying our best to make it bigger and better,” Stewart said.
Stewart added that the goal is a 6,500-foot runway.
The model Pike’s facility is working with is the Golden Triangle Airport in the Columbus-Starkville area, which has brought at least nine associated businesses to that region.
Pike County Economic Development District executive director Britt Herrin presented the Industry of the Year Award to Summit Plastics.
“Times are tough for everybody, especially the little guys. There are real challenges out there,” Herrin said before introducing Summit Plastics’ John Westbrook.
The Summit facility, which manufactures extruded industrial plastic films, sheeting and bags, is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.
The Laurel Street business also manufactures can liners as a form of fundraisers that support local and regional schools, churches, day cares, athletics and other organizations.
The business employs some 70 people, with an estimated annual payroll of $1.7 million.
Since 2006, Summit Plastics has been a subsidiary of Envision Industries of Wichita, Kan., which manufactures plastic can liners and sheeting. Envision is a Kansas-based, private, nonprofit agency that provides rehabilitation and employment for people who are blind or have low vision.
Westbrook said Summit Plastics plans a new line this year with a half-million dollar expansion.
Before Thursday’s fish fry, radio station K106 conducted a live broadcast with local elected officials. Those attending included State Rep. Sam Mims V, Summit Mayor Percy Robinson, Magnolia Mayor Melvin Harris, Pike County Supervisor Tazwell Bowsky and McComb Selectman Bobby Maddox.
Before the fish fry, patrons had the chance to bid on prizes including local dinners, pottery, a half-hour massage, a night’s lodging, a Confederate $5 bill and a stay at Gulf Shores Plantation in Alabama.
Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Freeman won the drawing for $250 in cash. They also were named best-dressed man and woman at the tropical-themed event.
