The 2013 Great American Rockland County Cleanup Campaign Kicked-Off in Stony Point

BY BARRY WARNER

Spring is here and it was time for the Great American county-wide cleanup campaign, organized by Keep Rockland Beautiful, to bring out hundreds of volunteers of all ages to make Rockland County communities cleaner, healthier and more beautiful.

On Saturday, April 6, an estimated 200 plus volunteers cleaned up wooded areas and sides of roadways in Stony Point. Local Girl and Boy Scout troops, together with their families joined forces with local businesses, civic groups, students from local schools, town officials, police and highway departments to clean up the town. Litter is ugly, reduces property values, invites more garbage and is expensive to clean up.

Sonia Cairo, executive director of Keep Rockland Beautiful said, “It is wonderful to see so many volunteers to come out for a day of fun and service to the county. The cleanup goes far beyond the results, inspiring residents of the county to do their part in taking care of the environment.”

Paula Klein, Stony Point’s cleanup leader said, “The object of the cleanup is to get the winter road trash picked up. Over the years I have been a volunteer and Girl Scout leader and really have enjoyed it. I sent out an e-mail to all civic groups with a request to provide people to help with the program. The tote bags given out contained free trash bags, clear bags for recyclables, wipes and a 2013 tee shirt. The grabbers are loaned and have to be returned at the end of the cleanup. Car traffic safety issues dealt with proper trash removal on Route 9W and the Pyngyp Palisade Parkway entrance roads.”

Katie Martin said, “I became involved with the Girl Scouts and started my own troop. The members of the troop are giving back to the community today by getting involved with the Stony Point cleanup activities.”

Janice Philbin said, “I am a Girl Scout leader, believe in volunteerism and have been involved with the cleanup for 10 years. I live in Stony Point and want it kept clean, so I am stepping up to help. It is important to teach youngsters to get involved and give back to the community.”

Town Councilwoman Luanne Konopko said, “I am a volunteer and give back to nature on a regular basis. It is gratifying to see the community coming together at the Stony Point cleanup.”

At the end of the cleanup, volunteers gathered at Lowland Park to share cleanup successes and enjoy a picnic lunch provided by the town and served by the Stony Point Lions Club. For information about future events contact www.keeprocklandbeautiful.org or call 845-708-9164

  Great American Rockland County Cleanup Campaign, rockland cleanup