Louisiana Economic Development's (LED) annual Lantern Awards ceremony was held on 6/10/08 at the Governor's Mansion in recognition of outstanding manufacturing businesses from across the state. Co-sponsored by the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association (LIDEA), the awards are presented to businesses that demonstrate excellence in manufacturing and community involvement.

The winners are selected from the state's eight Regional Planning and Development Districts and are chosen based on community contribution, employee growth and facility expansion. Each business also must demonstrate sustainability by remaining in operation at least three years prior to the nomination.

The award winners will receive copper lanterns made in Louisiana by Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights in New Orleans. 

The 2008 Louisiana Lantern Award Winners are:

Region 1 - Regional Planning Commission
Abita Brewing Company, LLC, Abita Springs

Region 2 - Capital Region Planning Commission
Placid Refining Company LLC, Port Allen

Region 3 - South Central Planning & Development Commission
Marathon Petroleum Company - Garyville Refinery, Garyvile

Region 6 - Kisatchie - Delta Regional Planning & Development District, Inc.
Pearson Manufacturing, LLC, Pineville

Region 7 - The Coordinating & Development Corporation
Franke Consumer Products, Inc., Ruston

Region 8 - North Delta Regional Planning & Development District
International Paper - Louisiana Mill, Bastrop