The National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) announced February 9, 2010 that Tilcon New York is a finalist for a 2009 Community Involvement Award. The company was recognized Wednesday, January 20 at a special awards breakfast during the Association's 55th Annual Meeting held in Maui, Hawaii.
NAPA presents its Community Involvement Award to asphalt companies that serve their communities through outstanding programs and projects. 'NAPA understands how important it is for the companies in our industry to participate in and support their communities' said Jim Weeks, 2009 Chairman of the NAPA Board of Directors. 'This recognition reflects the high priority that Tilcon New York places upon its relationship with its neighbors.'
'Tilcon places the highest value on supporting the neighborhoods where our operations are located' says Karen Edgar, the company's public relations manager. 'We are continously exploring ways to lend a hand to these communities. For instance, we are very involved with athletic leagues through team sponsorship programs. We give generously to many local organizations such as volunteer fire and rescue squads with both monetary and material donations.'
In 2009, Tilcon welcomed about 3,000 residents to its annual Quarry Education Open House. Residents learned about the historic quarry during bus tours of the site, viewed and climbed on enormous mining equipment and enjoyed free food and drinks.
'Our open houses attract more and more visitors each year because they provide family-fun and interesting activities the entire day.' Edgar says. 'Many of our visitors return year after year to see what exciting new displays and activities we have to offer. The open houses allow communities to observe our operations and understand the importance of mining in today's society.'
Education is always a priority for the company. Tilcon New York offers educational program tours for grade school students, college classes and scouting groups. In 2009 Tilcon New Jersey and New York teamed up with a local elementary school to collect more than 1,700 new and gently used books to donate to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey's 'Tools4Schools' program. The company's 'Support for Students' program, which focuses on assisting underfunded schools in New York and New Jersey, provided backpacks for students from kindergarten through eighth grade at one school.
As part of its environmental stewardship program, Tilcon and its parent company Oldcastle Materials Group, are participating in a program to improve wildlife habitats that surround our many sites. Tilcon New York has partnered with the Wildlife Habitat Council on a pilot program at its Tilcon Mt. Hope Quarry setting aside 8.6 acres for a wildlife habitat. 'Our plans include building habitat boxes for wildlife, creating and enhancing habitats for fish, and establishing plots of native plants. The second phase of the project will include the creation of nature trails and management of forested areas' says Edgar. 'The results of the work will be the presence of more wildlife and native vegetation with opportunities for the public to enjoy these areas from designated trails, further preserving delicate ecosystems.'
