The fall clean up was a huge success.
The Back River Restoration Committee (BRRC) continues to make a difference in cleaning the trash and debris from the local waterways. (See picture of barge and debris!) The October clean-up included 150 volunteers, including representatives of all generations from kindergarten through 'senior' senior-citizens (ages 5 to 82). BRRC has a goal to include more young people in their environmental activities.
In Part 2 of this series, the elementary and middle school students were highlighted. (See links below for Part 1 and Part 2!)
The college generation was also well represented with 40 students from Towson University. Thank you to professors Chris Lavoie and John Shea who encouraged their students to learn from Jim Pollock's “Trash Art” sculptures by participating in the clean-up. Jim Pollock, the famed Hampden sculptor, was on hand to give the students first hand tips.
Rebecca Puls, a Towson student from Catonsville, said, “I'll never use styrofoam again! I'm glad I had this chance to learn about its environmental impact.”
Wendy Fitch, Gaithersburg, is looking forward to her sculpture. “I found a fantastic baby stroller that will transform into a nice sculpture. I am really glad my teacher suggested this type of art event.”
“Living in this area, I had no idea we would find sites like today's clean up at Sullivan's Garage. We take our environment so much for granted. We need to raise awareness and consciousness of the problems,” said Lauren Knudsen, Essex.
“I wish there was more education for younger children about this pollution. I learned about the Pacific Garbage Patch in class. It made me take time to collect 100 plastic bottles when I visited Dundalk recently. I hope more events like today are held to raise the awareness of this problem,” said Kelly Bryan, Perry Hall.
Jae_Woo Brian Baik, Towson, said he was just glad to be part of the event and could provide helping hands.
With Molly Williams, the new BRRC Project Manager, taking the reins, the fall clean-up was a huge success.
A big “THANKS” to all the volunteers who participated. A big shout out to all the businesses who donated time, equipment and other goods.
Don't forget to mark your calendar for May 20, 2012 for the next Trash Art Auction that will feature some sculptures from this fall clean-up!
In the conclusion of this series, Part 4, will discuss other goals of the Back River Restoration Committee.
Comments