Mississippi Businesses Recognized for Hurricane Relief Efforts

Seven Mississippi businesses were recognized by the Small Business Administration for outstanding acts of volunteerism following hurricanes Katrina and Rita as part of the 2006 Small Business Week in Washington, D.C. These awards were presented during a two-day conference focused on small business accomplishments and showcased those businesses recovering from disasters.

"I am delighted to see these businesses rewarded for their volunteer efforts in the aftermath of these devastating hurricanes," Governor Barbour said. "It gives me great hope to see these companies come together to help our state in its toughest moment. They have truly exemplified Mississippi's resilient and hospitable spirit."

The following businesses were selected as recipients of the SBA awards for 2006:

NVision Solutions Inc., based at the NASA Stennis Space Center, was selected as the SBA "State Winner." NVision provides a full range of GIS, Remote Sensing, and Database services and application development.

Hancock County Chamber of Commerce received the Phoenix Award for "Outstanding Contribution to Disaster Recovery by a Public Official" for small business disaster recovery.

WQRZ Radio in Bay St. Louis received the Phoenix Award for "Outstanding Contribution to Disaster Recovery by a Volunteer" for small business disaster recovery.

Viking Range Corporation, of Greenwood; The Rogue & Good Company, LLC, of Jackson; Gulf Hills Hotel & Conference Center, of Ocean Springs; and KLLM Transport Services, of Richland, all received the American Spirit Award for volunteerism in disaster areas that were impacted by hurricanes Katrina, Rita, or Wilma.