September 16, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CITY OF JACKSON TO RECEIVE $150,000 GRANT TO ASSIST LUIGINO’S INC. WITH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EXPANSION PROJECT

Columbus, OH -- State Development Director Bruce Johnson today announced that the City of Jackson in Jackson County will receive a $150,000 grant to assist Luigino's, Inc. with an economic development expansion project. The $7.3 million project is expected to create 45 jobs.

The State’s assistance will have a positive, economic impact on the City of Jackson,” said Johnson. “The Department of Development is committed to providing assistance to help attract and retain jobs in communities throughout the state.”

The grant will be awarded through the Ohio Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Economic Development Program, which is administered by the Ohio Department of Development.

Luigino's, located on Broadway Street, produces Michelina's, Yu Sing and Budget Gourmet frozen food entrees and snack foods. The company will purchase machinery and equipment to add its 16th production line. The grant will be used to install 2,333 linear feet of waterline.

The CDBG Economic Development Program provides funding for economic development projects that create and/or retain permanent, private-sector job opportunities. The grants enable local governments to provide public improvements directly related to business development and financial assistance to private entities for economic development projects. Jobs created through the program must benefit primarily low- and moderate-income Ohioans.

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