If you think that Indian River cannot get any lovelier than it already is, you are mistaken. Thanks to the efforts of Keep Indian River Beautiful, there are many things that everyone can do to make and keep our pristine paradise as perfect as it can be.
The mood in the room was lighthearted last Thursday afternoon at the KIRB Awards Luncheon, honoring the 2014 Green Initiatives of individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations. More than 60 people attended the luncheon at the Oak Harbor Club, as KIRB presented awards for outstanding efforts in community and environmental improvement.
Environmental Awards were given to the Green Team at the Vero Beach Boys & Girls Club, South Passage Condominium Association, At the River Outfitters, White Glove Moving, Storage & Delivery, and Stacy Gordon.
Keep Indian River Beautiful Awards were given to Piper Aircraft, Republic Services, Elsbeth Eibs, Vivian Mosshart, Treasure Coast Exchange Club, and Girard Equipment.
“Our goal is to create a community that is connected economically, educationally, and environmentally. Our programs educate people to recycle, and make our community more livable,” said KIRB executive director Daisy Packer, whose love of the environment comes from having grown up on the Treasure Coast. “One person makes a small difference. But that helps because it is contagious.”
Packer has big plans for KIRB, including sprucing up its storefront, located near Macy’s in the Indian River Mall. It is the ideal spot for reformed hoarders to rid themselves of their excess “stuff” and feel good about it.
She spoke with excitement about upcoming events, such as the April Great American Clean Up. The Recycle Regatta on the Fourth of July will challenge contestants to build boats constructed mostly of recycled materials to sail along the Indian River Lagoon.
County Commissioner Joe Flescher was honored for his strong support of KIRB recycling goals, not only as a director of KIRB, but also for his personal passion for recycling. His enthusiasm was palpable as he demonstrated a display of artwork made from repurposed rubbish.
“I have 200 of these things at home,” Flescher laughed. “My family is wondering about me.”
Flescher wowed the crowd with what can be done with an old battery charger. “Take it apart. There are copper wires and clamps. I would use the clamps for wood. Or take it to the convenience center,” said Flescher. “We can do this.”
He said that that pressure-treated deck wood, styrofoam and car engine oil are the scourge of the environment.
“Drain your own oil and drop it off at the convenience center. Let’s take the positive energy in this room and use it to reduce, reuse and recycle. We have to join together to make this work.”
In addition to the awards, Carol Vaziri, owner of Décor Accents, presented Packer with the proceeds from a fundraising event held the night before with her fellow merchants of Designers Row.
For more information, visit www.kirb.org.