If things look cleaner around Eskasoni these days, you can thank George Paul and his 12 workers for Enhancing Our Community. Since the middle of May, George and his team have tackled roadside, river, and shoreline cleanups, as well as Mountain Road.
Garbage is a concern in every community and Eskasoni’s is major. At first, the problem seemed insurmountable. Then they came up with the Spring Cleanup Derby involving the whole community. Nearly 450 residents participated, collecting over 3000 bags of garbage in only two days!
Prizes were added incentive. The adults’ grand prize of a 37-inch LCD TV went to Peter Denny who collected 125 bags. The kids’ grand prize of a giant waterslide went to Byson Young. Honourable mention must also go to Joe Allan Francis and Joe Marshall who each collected over 100 bags. All the bags collected went to Guysborough to be incinerated.
A Tire Rally was also held, where people could drop off tires for recycling. Tommy Simon donated his tire de-rimmer and the team took off 200 rims in two days. 1845 tires were hauled away for recycling by Morris Trucking.
Through these efforts, the team has identified illegal dumping areas as a major concern, with Mountain Road as a prime example of putting the community at risk. Through public awareness, the team hopes to stop illegal dumping in Eskasoni with everyone taking responsibility for their own garbage and disposing of it properly.
George Paul sums it all up, “We practice our rights, let’s practice our ways, be responsible, please do not litter.”