Brookhaven roadways get their annual spring cleaning

By Colleen Maidhof | April 18, 2011 Northshore Sun

Were you driving around Brookhaven Saturday wondering why a bunch of people in neon green shirts were cleaning litter off the side of the road? Those were hard-working volunteers from the Great Brookhaven Cleanup.

More than 5,000 people registered throughout Brookhaven to participate in the event. Volunteers cleared litter from wooded areas, shopping centers, parks, and roadsides, so the town would be cleaner and safer for community members. Volunteers also tended to destination areas to help restore and fix what needed attention.

“Our goal is to put ourselves out of business by getting community members active in cleaning up litter and replenishing the community, not just for the day but permanently,” said Middle Island Civic Association president Tom Talbot, who co-chairs the town’s anti-litter task force. “Last year we gathered about 80 tons of litter in one day. Cleaning up is good for the town, and it gives people a sense of community.”

The Middle Island Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and Longwood Alliance joined members of the Middle Island Civic in cleanup efforts in their hamlet.

Locations such as Bartlett Pond Park and Old Baptist Methodist Cemetery were among the areas cleaned up by the crews.

Students of the Longwood JHS placing government tombstone of Lt. Uriah Smith at the Old Baptist cemetery in Coram.

Longwood JHS students under the direction of social studies teacher Mr. Kevin Edwards clean up the Old Baptist cemetery.

Longwood JHS students also helping to take vines down from trees at Bartlett Pond Park.

Social studies teacher Mr.. Richard Crawford (up in tree, and he wasn't even nervous) leading a crew taking vines from trees. By removing vines it is hoped that the 65 trees in this area of the park can be saved.

Longwood students at Bartlett Pond Park on vine patrol.