Many people in Jones County won’t argue when asked about the impact Howard Industries has had on Jones County during its decades of production. According to public documents, the company employs more than 4,000 people in Laurel, Sandersville, Ellisville, and Mendenhall.

The Leader-Call has published numerous reports of Howard Industries’ impact on local schools and service organizations. The industry supports every school in the county and many in the area with grants, donations, and sponsorships. The United Way of the Pine Belt Region, the American Red Cross of the Pine Belt, and other service organizations have also expressed much gratitude to the industry. Some of that support doesn’t make it into media reports because donations were made without expecting recognition.

A local principal voiced support for Howard Industries after OSHA announced stiff penalties against two Howard Industries plants for safety violations earlier this year.

“I am writing in response to the article in the June 11th edition of the Laurel Leader-Call titled ‘OSHA Cites Laurel Industry,’” wrote West Jones Middle School Principal Mike Moore in a letter to the editor. “It seems that OSHA is a lot like the NCAA that governs college athletics. The NCAA cites schools for minor violations and calls it ‘serious offenses’ which cripples athletic programs while student athletes are trying to get an education. Howard Industries has been cited for so called ‘serious violations’ and OSHA is imposing penalties of $193,000 on this industry.

“Although my analogy may be considered a poor one, I do understand that you are just reporting news and negative publicity sells papers. However, I believe in Howard Industries and I believe in the Howard family. They are professionals and will meet all safety standards OSHA places on them.

“Howard Industries is a vital part of the growth of our community and our educational system. They are the backbone of a better quality of living in the Jones County area as they provide many jobs and opportunities. I would like to share with you what the Howards have done for West Jones middle and high school as well as other schools in Jones County.

“Through the Howard grant program, West Jones has added thousands of dollars worth of technology to the classrooms such as computers, smart boards etc. They have sponsored field trips that have helped enhance the educational experience of our students. Their generous contributions have helped tutorial programs reach ‘at risk’ students.

“Thanks to the generosity of Mr. Billy, Ms. Linda, Billy Jr., Michael and Cindi, more of our students are able to gain success in academics, athletics, band, choral music, agriculture and more. Because of you, the Howard family, our students are able to have a great experience in school and as a result lessen the drop-out rate. Thank you on the behalf of West Jones Middle and High School.”