Craig still vital to Selma industry

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, November 20, 2002

It was a vital part of Selma, and it continues to be a vital part of Selma, says Menzo Driskell.

Driskell, who is the executive director of Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority, said that Craig Field continues to remain an important place for job growth, recreation as well as many other things.

One thing at Craig Field, which Driskell said would bring job growth to Selma, is the Alabama Works Job Skill Center, a facility to teach job skills for particular industries.

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Driskell said companies like Louisiana Pacific, Meadowcraft Inc., and Raytheon still continue to thrive at Craig Field, while new companies like Blue Ox Forestry Inc., a wood products company, and Keystone Engineering &uot;bring something new&uot; to the Airport Authority.

Besides being a place for job growth, Craig Field, said Driskell, continues to attract visitors, including people, who worked at the base since its opening during World War II.

If not for working, said Driskell, people can also enjoy the recreation, including the golf course.

A possible addition to Craig Field may be suppliers for the $1 billion Hyundai Plant in Montgomery, said Wayne Vardaman, executive director of the Selma-Dallas County Economic Development Authority.

Driskell, standing in his office, points to an invitation to the Hyundai Groundbreaking in Hope Hull, which he attended April 16, an event attended by former Gov. Don Siegelman, which Driskell called &uot;a lot of fun.&uot;

For Driskell, who has been the executive director for the past three years, the job still remains enjoyable.