CSG Presents Three Private Sector Awards

Three private sector members of The Council of State Governments have been recognized for their exemplary partnership with CSG, the states and their communities.

During the CSG Annual State Trends and Leadership Forum that ended this week in Phoenix, Gov. Brad Henry, CSG president, presented the awards to the National Apartment Association; Holcim U.S. Inc.; and Stateside Associates.

The National Apartment Association was recognized for creating the National Accessible Apartment Clearinghouse 12 years ago as a non-profit organization. The clearinghouse provides a central resource for residents with physical disabilities to find apartment homes that meet their needs. The organization plays a vital role in bringing the private sector together with the public to meet their housing needs.

Shelly Cook accepted the award on behalf of the National Apartment Association.

Holcim U.S. Inc. was recognized for two projects initiated by the company’s Theodore, Alabama plant to aid in rebuilding the local community in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. One project was the rebuilding of the Bayou Clinic, which was destroyed by Katrina. The clinic, which serves low-income residents in the Theodore community, burned down the day before it was scheduled to re-open. The Theodore plant and other local industries subsequently spear headed a drive to raise $120,000 to restore the clinic. In addition, the company donated $50,000 to the clinic.

In the second project, Holcim provided cement for Habitat for Humanity to build 11 new homes for Theodore residents who were displaced by the hurricane. And Holcim employees provided volunteer labor on the building projects.

Joe McFalls, Holcim’s Theodore plant manager, accepted the award on behalf of the company.

Michael Behm, senior vice president for State Side Associates was recognized as the CSG Associate Partner in Excellence. Behm serves on CSG’s environmental task force and actively participates in the meetings. In addition to suggesting topics and recommending speakers for the task force, Behm has made the resources of Stateside available to garner information in response to inquiries for assistance.

Brian Gordon accepted the award for Behm, who was unable to attend.