The Take

This was a twofer week. The City of Norcross had two fun, free, back–to-back city wide events. Both were well attended, assisted in part by marvelous fall weather, but mostly because of their first class content. Where else can you go on a Friday night with your honey, spread a blanket under the stars and enjoy music, a refreshing beverage or two and a little alfresco dining?

And this was followed on Saturday with an international event right up the street. Locals and visitors to historic downtown got to view some classy and classic British motor vehicles, chat up their proud owners, get a spot of tea while strolling (and shopping) and catch a bite. Kudos all around, thanks to the staff and volunteers who make these magic moments for all of us to enjoy.

There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, whether it is an annual affair or a routine event. It takes the coordinated effort of many to see after all the details that ensure an enjoyable experience. And if you never really thought about it, that is in part because folks have done such a good job that you don’t have to.

But if you did stop to think about it, would you wonder what’s up with those blue contraptions with clear plastic bags and dangling signs scattered around at every event? How do they get there, what goes in them, what comes out, what happens to the contents? Inquisitive minds want to know.

All together now: “Away From Home Special Events Recycling Grant”. The turn key kit came from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs as a grant to the City via an application prepared by Sustainable Norcross. The containers and trailer to transport them are for use at public events so folks can continue their recycling habit while away from home. Volunteers managed by Sustainable Norcross place the containers at the events, retrieve them and report the contents which are then recycled with the city waste vendor, Advanced Disposal.

So what was the take this week end? The 12 recycle containers netted about 87 pounds of beverage containers. About 53 pounds were glass with the balance aluminum and plastic. There were about seven additional pounds of cardboard. Eleven different volunteers (see September 13th posting) participated at three different times over the weekend to ensure the valuable recyclables stayed out of the land fill.

This would not be possible without each of you pitching in. Thanks for tossing your empties in the recycle containers and your garbage and food scraps in the trash. It takes all of us.


If you would like to do more than Pitch In, volunteer today.