State honors KEDC for Economic Excellence

John Cook, Texas Economic Development Commission Executive Committee member vice-chairman, and Amanda Nobles, Kilgore Economic Development Corporation executive director, take a break from festivities after Nobles' accepted the 2007 award for economic development excellence.

Kilgore Economic Development Corporation garnered another award from Texas Economic Development Council.

The council presented KEDC with the 2007 Award for Economic Excellence, given annually to agencies that meet a desired threshold of professionalism and advocate professional economic development in Texas. KEDC was recognized for success and achievement of TEDC goals by continued support of TEDC programs.

Amanda Nobles, KEDC executive director, accepted the award which was one of only 22 presented, out of nearly 900 TEDC member organizations throughout the state.

Nobles, an active member of TEDC, has served on the board and has chaired committees in the state organization, said the award is the result of KEDC board of directors' dedication to upholding the highest standards of conduct.

"Our board is known statewide for their progressive outlook and aggressive approach to growing the economy of Kilgore," Nobles said. "We all will continue our efforts to improve the quality of life for our citizens through the creation and retention of jobs by primary employers that facilitate growth and diversity in our economy."

Bill Adamson KEDC board president, gave credit back to Nobles.

"During her almost 20 years with KEDC, Amanda has consistently exhibited the highest professional ethics while tirelessly working to achieve the principal missions of KEDC. Amanda is one of Kilgore's greatest assets, and we applaud her for her efforts in securing recognition of Kilgore by TEDC."

KEDC took home another Texas Economic Development award in September of last year. For the second time since 2001, the corporation accepted the state award for innovation, transferability, community commitment and leverage, measured objectives and secondary benefits. Kilgore was selected from among cities with a population of 5,001 and 15,000, including Bonham, Gonzales, Lockhart, Monahans, Seagoville and Silsbee.