While some businesses in the country and the city are closing shop and sending employees looking for work, one local company is celebrating 60 years of operation in Lufkin. Axley & Rode LLP, an auditing and tax preparation business, held a ribbon cutting ceremony ,February 5, 2009, afternoon at their offices on Timberland Drive to commemorate their 60th anniversary. Inside, the building was packed with local business leaders who came to celebrate a business that has weathered time, including the current economic downturn. "Sixty years ago Axley & Rode started this firm. Today we have over 70 employees and we're proud to say we're still here," said Ernest King, managing partner. "We couldn't have done it without your support." Todd Kassaw, chairman for the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce, praised the business for weathering the economic storm and inspiring others to stay strong. "We are all grateful to sit underneath the shade of the tree that Axley and Rode planted 60 years ago," Kassaw said. "We take care of our businesses here, and these guys have been here and involved in this community for a long time." After the ribbon cutting ceremony, King reflected on what has made Axley & Rode endure through the years. "We've always had a good deal of talented people here and wonderful clients," King said. "I think in the end it all boils down to integrity, trust and confidentiality. We remember those three things and I think it's helped us last."

Help us congratulate these individuals for their commitment and loyalty to the firm and for a job well done.

Miranda Anderson 5 yrs (anniversary date 1/27/11)
Kim Placker 5 yrs (anniversary date 8/7/11)
Debbie Hillyer 5 yrs (anniversary date 8/14/11)

Justin Matthews 5 yrs (anniversary date 9/5/11)
 

February 5, 2009