Naysayers have predicted a steady decline of the manufacturing segment of the nation’s economy for years. Outsourcing overseas, downsizing, and consolidations have all hit locally with several major industries closing in the last decade.

On the positive side for our community, there has also been an increase in a number of manufacturing segments, which has helped to keep the local economy churning along despite the economic slowdown.

As more corporations realize that keeping manufacturing close to its markets makes far more sense than outsourcing it far away, this segment is holding its own and is not extinct. Far from it.

Though the fortunes of manufacturers in Lowndes County have ebbed and flowed in recent years, the future for this segment is still as strong and vital as ever. It’s heartening to see the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce step up to support manufacturers and the work they do for our community.

Today, the Chamber is hosting its annual Salute to Manufacturers Early Bird Breakfast at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center.

Nominees for the title of Manufacturer of the Year will be celebrated and a winner declared. However, with the attention the Chamber, the Industrial Authority, city and county governments are all paying to assisting manufacturers and helping to keep them alive and well in our community, manufacturers located here are all winners.

Valdosta-Lowndes County has a strong history of being pro-business and nowhere is this more evident than in the relationship between the community leadership and local businesses. The support for area industries and manufacturers is the reason why so many choose to locate here. And why so many have chosen to expand and stay here rather than relocate elsewhere.

To all the area manufacturers, thank you for all you do to provide employment opportunities and for being good community partners. The Times joins the Chamber in a heartfelt Salute!