Sandy Hook Hauler Gets National Honor

Pat Caruso of Associated Refuse Haulers in Sandy Hook recently received the National Solid Wastes Management Association’s Special Governor’s Award for years of service to NSWMA’s state chapter.

NSWMA is the trade association representing private solid waste collection and disposal companies throughout North America.

The awards ceremony took place in Chicago as part of the waste industry’s national trade show, WasteExpo 2008. Associated Refuse Haulers, a hometown hauler serving the greater Newtown area, was recognized for its customer service.

Upon college graduation, Mr Caruso began selling garbage collection equipment in the Virginia area and later moved to Connecticut to sell equipment there.

In 1982, he opened his own garbage hauling company and introduced residential cart systems to the area. His company has 18 trucks and is still growing.

Mr Caruso is a volunteer at the Newtown Rotary Club where he helps out in soup kitchens and raises funds for local community service groups as well as international services in developing countries.

“I am proud to be assisting the Rotary, known for eradicating polio in many parts of the world,” said Mr Caruso.

Bruce Parker, NSWMA’s president and CEO, said Mr Caruso has been an active member of NSWMA, playing a lead role in supporting the state chapter for more than a decade.

“He has helped create a positive industry image for both his company and the solid waste industry,” said Mr Parker.