By Rita Howell

Paving contractor Lehman-Roberts’ Batesville plant has been recognized for the second time in three years with the Diamond Achievement Commendation from the National Asphalt Pavement Association.

The award is presented for excellence in hot-mix asphalt plant/site operations, according to a news release from NAPA.

“The Diamond Achievement Commendation is an honor in which a company and a community can take great pride,” NAPA’s chairman Mac Badgett said. “It clearly demonstrates a corporate commitment to excellence with a community focus.”

The assessment for the award is based on plant appearance, operations, environmental practices, safety, permitting and regulatory compliance and community relations.

The Batesville facility was first recognized with the award in 2006.

Lehman-Roberts this week is hosting, with the Mississippi Department of Transportation and NAPA, a career fair for area high school students. It’s one of only two such fairs being held in the state.

On Wednesday students from South Panola HIgh School’s vocational and technical classes will tour the Batesville plant, located on Farrish Gravel Road off Highway 6 West.

During the fair, students will have an opportunity to see and operate construction equipment and speak to professionals on a one-on-one basis about careers in the highway construction industry.