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BISHOP TOURS MILL AT GRAPHIC PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL

October 22, 2012

MACON, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) joined the Graphic Packaging International staff and management on a tour of their mill in Macon, Georgia.

“I thoroughly enjoyed touring the site of this very important local employer,” said Congressman Bishop. “Graphic Packaging International has effectively demonstrated that it is possible to both protect the environment and create jobs. It is truly a model for the nation.”

“We really appreciated having Congressman Bishop at Graphic Packaging today,” commented Resident Mill Manager, Steve Hanson. “Not only did Congressman Bishop spend quality time with the Graphic Packaging team, he was also able to see first-hand the impact potential legislation could have on our business.”

Graphic Packaging International (GPI) is a leading maker of laminated, coated, and printed packaging such as beverage carriers, cereal boxes, microwavable food packaging, and detergent cartons. In 2011, the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority agreed to issue revenue bonds for a $140 million expansion at Graphic Packaging International, including installation of a biomass boiler and 40-megawatt turbine generator at its Macon mill. The new biomass system, which is expected to be in operation by as early as mid-2013, would generate power from about 400,000 tons of logging residuals. The project is expected to create 10 to 20 additional jobs at the mill, along with the construction jobs created by the project. In 2010, the company employed over 520 salaried and hourly employees.

To view pictures of today’s tour, please click here.