Toyota team members joined state officials and local leaders Monday in celebrating the big event. In honor of the anniversary, Toyota gave gifts to the community. A new Tundra truck for the Buffalo Volunteer Fire Department. Another Tundra for Habitat for Humanity. And, a check for 500-thousand dollars to the Tri-County YMCA for their new swimming pool.

Governor Joe Manchin had nothing but praise for the Toyota team. "Toyota's investment in West Virginia represents a commitment to quality, a commitment to community and a commitment to the people. We are excited about what the future holds for this partnership".

The Putnam County engine plant has expanded four times in the last decade. A fifth expansion will be completed next year adding another 150 workers. Over 1,000 team members are now employed at the facility.

Toyota puts a big emphasis on the team concept and the team members are very loyal in return. Many have been with the company for several years and feel they've found a home. Rhonda Gill of Salt Rock is a 7-year veteran. "Toyota is wonderful to work with. People together as team members. They really incorporate that into the plant. People work really hard to strive for that. I'm really tickled to be a part of it". And, Joe Burgess, also a 7-year employee, agrees. "Toyota makes all the employees feel important. The decision making process..everyone's involved, regardless of the level of employment. And, it gives everyone a sense of ownership in the company and the quality of the engines. So, it's a great gig".

The success of Toyota's Buffalo plant has resulted in several automotive suppliers locating in the area, including a dozen from Japan.