Staff Writer

Charles W. Norris is one man who believes in recycling.

That dedication to turning old cans, plastic and paper into new products earned him a $500 bond.

As a way to recognize American Recycling Day, which is today, the Troy Recycling Center offered residents the chance to win on the local, state and national level.

Bill Rice Sr., recycling coordinator for Troy, said the city "is a great recycling town," and was pleased "a regular recycler" was the winner.

On Nov. 2, Norris’ name and two others were drawn and he was the only one who had his blue bag at the curb on the next pickup day.

"The other two are getting the bags, but not using the bags for recycling," Rice said. "I’m glad they didn’t win."

Rice said giving away the $500 bond was a "wonderful promotion" and he is pleased with the results. Sponsors of the local drawing are Troy Recycling, Mount Scrap and WTBF.

Norris’ name will now be entered in a statewide drawing and puts him in the running for a house ­ at the national level in December.

"They have a better chance of winning that (the house) than the lottery," Rice said.

Troy’s recycling program began in1991 and many residents, businesses and industries participate in it, Rice said, adding Norris is known for having his blue bag at the curb of Richmond Avenue.