Let’s look forward to next weekend when so many people will start the summer!
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, it’s Memorial Day Weekend preparation week. Many people will plan outdoor activities as well as weekend getaways. Start planning today.
If you are thinking of driving away from the area, prepare your vehicle with tire pressure, coolant and fuel checks. Chances are good that our gas prices might be better here than there.
Properly inflated tires increase your mileage; keep your speed in check too. If possible, use cruise control to maintain your speed and avoid spikes on the gas pedal. And when you check the coolant, check the windshield wiper fluid.
Pollen is still swirling around and with a sudden downpour, it may be necessary to wash your windshield. Many people will go to local parks…if you are planning to have a picnic, you can check to see if there is a need to reserve shelter. (I could be far from here, and others were ordering long before this article was in the Gaston Gazette).
You know what I’m going to say next: if you’re planning to go on a picnic, bring reusable plates, glasses, cutlery and napkins. We have a permanent box of these items, so I won’t have to look for them when we’re ready for an outdoor dining experience!
I would scrape the leftovers into small bags (then into the compost bin at home), pile up the used plates, cups and forks, and wash at home. We try to “leave no traces” regardless of our location: backyard or mountaintop!
Remember that you are modeling good environmental behavior when you make this effort. Recycling aluminum cans and glass bottles and plastic bottles You also really need a stopper here. It is very easy to recycle these three materials.
Did you know that Gaston County is one of the few counties in North Carolina that offers free recycling of bottles and glass bottles? We have been running our program for more than three years; when we secured our connection to Strategic Glass in Wilson, North Carolina, we were able to offer this service free of charge to our county residents.
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has offered to help start a new program; we’re up and running, so make sure you visit our site! Our glasses come from you in great condition; cleaned and uncontaminated because our recyclers are the best!
Coming from our Beetopia event last Saturday, the “bees” are aware of any pest spray you might be thinking of using at your outdoor event. I know in our backyard; Mosquitoes can ruin any gathering. One way to keep them away is with a large, properly placed outdoor fan, which will keep mosquitoes away from our guests. Lemongrass is another good option to avoid pesticides which can also kill our pollinators.
Don’t forget the Farmers Market for local food. With Gastonia Market open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, you’ll be able to plan the most delicious meal or meal! Among bread, vegetables, meat, eggs and table decorations made of cut flowers or plants, you can score the best event.
Unfortunately, our Honey Hunter will be on his way for the weekend so you’ll have to have some fun yourself! Check out their schedule for the rest of the summer; nothing says summer is better than baseball! Memorial Day Weekend is the best! You have a whole week to plan your Memorial Weekend green events and habits.
Nan Kirlin is the recycling coordinator for Gaston County.