2013
COOPERSTOWN – Each year the New York State Association for Reduction, Reuse and Recycling (NYSAR3), the state-wide professional recyclers’ association, recognizes outstanding New York recyclers for their dedication, innovation, and passion.
This year, two people were presented with recycling awards by NYSAR3 at the annual New York State Recycling Conference and Trade Show in Cooperstown on Nov. 17. Grant presentations were also announced for College Council members, and special recognition was given to the 2014 New York Recycles Calendar poster contest winners from grades K-12.
Dianne Woske, Recycling Coordinator at the Fulton County Department of Solid Waste in Johnstown, was named 2013 Recycler of the Year - and Jim Gilbert, who recently retired from Empire State Development, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement award.
Woske, who has represented Region 5 (the Adirondacks) on the NYSAR3 Board for 12 years, has also served as secretary, vice president and president of the group. She is long-time newsletter editor and serves on several committees, including conference planning and media.
In her position as Fulton County Recycling Coordinator, Woske oversees a county-wide recycling and education program and has helped develop several programs, including a latex paint exchange, HHW event, electronics recycling, public event “Borrow A Bin,” and the introduction of new materials into the recycling program. Dianne is described as “not having the word ‘no’ in her vocabulary, always willing to step up and assist above and beyond and doing it was a little laugh and a big smile!”
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Jim Gilbert, retired secondary materials marketing specialist with Empire State Development’s Environmental Services Unit. Described as a “straight shooter”, Jim led efforts over the last 25 years to establish robust markets for scrap plastics and rubber and knows every tire and plastics recycler in and around New York.
Jim oversaw the market development component of NY’s Waste Tire Management and Recycling Act, creating a marketplace for nearly 20 million tires generated in the state each year. Jim’s work has been featured in national trade magazines. Even in retirement, Jim has remained active within the materials management community and continues to be a strong advocate for recycling. Gilbert also serves as NYSAR3 Board of Directors representative from Region 8 (the counties surrounding Rochester and south to the Pennsylvania border).
Dave Lupinski, President of NYSAR3 stated “From e-waste to organics composting, recycling continues to challenge professionals working to make a positive impact in opening up more opportunities to divert materials discarded by New Yorkers from disposal. It is important to recognize dedicated people like Dianne Woske and Jim Gilbert who tirelessly and selflessly promote our mission.”
