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October 22, 2007
Office of the Governor announces beautification campaign; Frederiksted areas cleaned-up As part of an on-going initiative linking the community to clean-up efforts territory-wide, the Office of the Governor St. Croix staff launched an initiative to clean up and beautify the island. "St. Croix Be Clean," began on October 13 with a clean-up of Marley Beach and continued this weekend with a clean-up of three sites in Frederiksted. The clean-up campaign was launched in an effort to raise awareness on the importance of clean recreational areas, community stewardship, and neighborhood pride. Organized under the Office of the Administrator, Lead Organizer, Assistant Administrator Dawn Bruce joined Rotary West, FEDA, NERM (Nature’s Environmental Role Models) of St. Croix Central High School, Bates Trucking and Trash Removal, Plaza Extra West, Johnson’s Landscaping Services, Centerline Cash & Carry, El Patio Flowers Shop, Cultural Creation of the V.I., Superior Executive Services, Office of the Governor staff, and other volunteers from throughout the community in Saturday’s effort to clean up Verne Richards Veteran’s Park, the Clock Tower and surrounding areas, as well as the parking lot across from the Frederiksted Clinic. "Today’s effort is a clear indication of the power of working together. As a community, we are willing to do whatever it takes to make these islands a better place for everyone. I am so pleased at the tremendous progress made today, and am encouraged by the support behind this important initiative to enhance our community areas," Bruce said. Participants convened at 6:30 a.m. at the parking lot across from the Frederiksted Clinic and spent the day removing trash, cutting back overgrown tree branches, clearing walkways, as well as raking scattered leaves and brush. In addition, sand that had been displaced along the Waterfront by Hurricane Dean was shifted, raked, and redeposited back onto the beach. "I would like to thank all the individuals who came out today. This type of wide-scale clean-up campaign has never happened before. We are here to make a difference in these beaches and common recreational sites. By taking pride in where we live, we come together as a community and improve the experience of life in the Virgin Islands for all," Bruce said. "Residents and visitors are attracted by the natural beauty of St. Croix. This initiative pays attention to that, and is in place in order to try and provide a means for keeping the community involved in beautification efforts on St. Croix," Bruce continued. Assistant Administrator Bruce and Governor’s Office staff have scheduled another clean-up for Saturday November 10 at Canegata Ball Park. Members of the community are encouraged to join the initiative to beautify St. Croix and the Virgin Islands and are invited to meet at the Government Parking Lot in Christiansted at 6:30 a.m. Food and beverages will be provided Additional clean-up efforts are currently being planned, and the "St. Croix Be Clean" task force plans to target areas for clean-up at least one Saturday per month, year-round. The clean-up campaign is an effort of The Office of the St. Croix Administrator and is reflective of the deJongh-Francis Administration’s pledge to work together towards raising the quality of life for all in the Virgin Islands. Members of the community interested in volunteering on this important initiative may contact the Office of the Governor at 772-1000. |
