Milliken Stages Earth Run 2001Environmental stewardship was the focus of the Second Annual Earth Run, a cross-country race held in March on the corporate grounds of Spartanburg, S.C.-based sponsor, MillikenandCompany. More than 300 local and regional runners participated in the event.People in our company really get excited about environmental stewardship, said Richard Dillard, director, public affairs. Its a culture Mr. [Roger] Milliken has instilled in us, starting with the beautiful grounds and tree plantings. Beyond that, the companys recycling initiatives have resulted in sending only 2 percent of its waste to landfill. It has received numerous awards for its efforts in recycling and sustainable development.The race is part of the Corporate Shield series of competitive races between participating companies and organizations to promote fitness and friendly competition. To highlight the environmental theme of this years race, the company gave a Scarlet Oak seedling to each participant and awarded trophies consisting of cedar slabs cut from a dead tree trunk found on the property. T-shirts made from natural, unbleached cotton also were given out.The 5-kilometer race course is rolling, grassy terrain. It has been the site of numerous collegiate races and was also used for the 1999 Junior Olympic National Cross-Country Championship Race.May 2001
