Despite the four announcements that preceded it, Wednesday’s ceremony hosted by Natchez Inc. was the first of its kind.

And it was the uniqueness of this deal that should be celebrated and praised.

More so than Elevance, Enersteel, HCL CleanTech or KiOR, a company at the heart of this latest economic development announcement holds a special place in local hearts — because it’s already local.

Blain Sand and Gravel has been doing business in the Natchez area for years. The company is known and respected.

Their partnership with Fores North America to mine and refine sand to support the fracking industry is a good deal for Adams County.

Construction on Blain’s portion of the new company — Magnolia Frac Sand — is set to begin early next month.

Between the two companies, 60 employees are expected to get jobs, and $34 million will be invested into Adams County.

We are happy for both parties, but especially proud that a local company is going to be part of an expanding business, right here at home.

Congratulations, again, to Natchez Inc. for its work in making this business deal become a reality. It’s great to see our economic development engine not only recruiting big boys from out of town, but also working with existing industries to grow what we’ve already got.