Community Pride Day set for April 28

Published 10:42 am Wednesday, April 4, 2012

It’s time to start thinking trash tongs and plastic bags, people.

Area organizers are gearing up for the Sixth Annual Community Pride Day from 9 a.m. to noon April 28, and that requires volunteers — lots of them.

According to Austin Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department Director Kim Underwood, last year’s Community Pride Day drew more than 200 volunteers, and she’s hoping for that turnout again. During the three-hour initiative, volunteers attempt to clean all of Austin’s 28 parks, along with other green spaces. And though Community Pride Day had a good turnout even with rainy weather in 2011, there is always more cleanup to be done.

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“There are a lot of parks and stuff that we never get to because we don’t have enough [volunteers],” said Lou Beckel, one of the organizers.

According to Underwood, volunteers overfilled an eight-yard disposal container with trash last year.

As usual, volunteers will meet at the municipal pool parking lot to receive their cleanup materials and assignments. However, those who wish to register for certain areas can do so by calling the Parks and Rec office at 507-433-1881. Those who wish to show up the day of the project may do so, as well. The event will be held rain or shine.

Once again, area businesses will sponsor the event.