BATON ROUGE – BASF’s Geismar site received the 2009 Lantern Award for the company’s excellence in manufacturing and community involvement, presented by Louisiana’s economic development agency and the Industrial Development Executives Association.
BASF was one of eight companies presented a Lantern Award at a June 16 ceremony in the Governor’s Mansion.
The awards are presented annually to leading industrial companies located in eight regions of Louisiana.
Winners are selected based on their contribution to their local community, including employment growth and facility expansion. Each business must also demonstrate sustainability by remaining in operation at least three years prior to the nomination.
“I want to commend the eight award recipients for their achievements and for their contributions to Louisiana’s economy,” said Stephen Moret, Louisiana economic development secretary. “Their innovation, workforce and products strengthen the foundation of our manufacturing base and enhance our competitiveness.”
Ascension Parish President Tommy Martinez said BASF occupies a special position as a leading corporate citizen in the community.
“On behalf of the Parish Council and the citizens of Ascension Parish, I am pleased to congratulate BASF on receiving this most prestigious award,” said Martinez. “BASF isn’t just a company or a facility, but part of the fabric of Ascension Parish. Its people are our people. BASF’s commitment to this community over the years has truly been beyond measure.”
Mike Cohen, senior vice president and general manager of BASF’s Geismar site, said both his company and the parish have benefited from their partnership.
“Our facility has been part of Ascension Parish for more than 50 years,” Cohen said. “Parish and state leaders have played an important role in making it possible for industries such as BASF to expand and create new jobs in Louisiana. We are very proud to receive this prestigious award and acknowledgment of BASF’s commitment to the growth of our Geismar site and the dedication and volunteerism of our employees in the community where we live and work.”
Also receiving 2009 Lantern Awards were American Sugar Refining Inc. of Arabi, John Deere of Thibodaux, Metal Shark Aluminum Boats of Jeanerette, Jon Margeaux of Lake Charles, Recycling Services Inc. of Alexandria, Haynes International Inc. of Arcadia and WPS Industries Inc. of West Monroe.
BASF’s Geismar site manufactures a wide range of products that are used in hundreds of consumer products.
