Volunteers needed for cleanup: Guild’s annual community project with Riverkeeper

A litter cleanup of the small park at the Ohio Street Boat Launch on Saturday, April 25 will mark the fourth year of a Guild initiative to aid the Spring Shoreline Cleanup coordinated by Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper.

The annual effort is conducted in memory of our late friend, reporter and Guild leader John “Jay” Bonfatti. Jay, who died in 2008, loved the outdoors and believed strongly in caring for the natural wonders of Western New York.

Guild members, with volunteers from other groups, have helped clear tons of trash from this location over the years, and we’re looking forward to a good turnout again this year. So, please join us in this worthwhile effort.

What: Buffalo Newspaper Guild’s annual cleanup event.
When: 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 25. Please arrive early at 9:40 a.m.
Where: Ohio Street Boat Launch near South Street, across from Father Conway Park.
Who: Guild members and their families, including children 12 and older.

To get to the Ohio Street Boat Launch from The Buffalo News, take Scott Street past Michigan Avenue. Turn right on Louisiana Street, right on South Street, and then right on Ohio Street. There is a small parking lot, as well as street parking.

Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting our major waterways. The cleanup involves more than 1,500 volunteers at 40 sites.

Gloves and trash bags will be provided. It’s advisable to wear waterproof boots and clothes that can get dirty.

Riverkeeper asks that each participant sign a liability waiver form before the event.

Release forms can be found in a clearly marked folder next to Jay Rey’s desk in the Editorial Dept. on the 3rd floor. Please fill out a form and return it to the folder. The form also will be provided the day of the event.

This is an opportunity for students who need to meet community service requirements, but Riverkeeper asks that children be at least 12 and supervised by an adult.

For more information, contact Dan Herbeck at tiptops@aol.com or 348-1173; Jay Rey at 849-5591; or Henry Davis at 849-5595 or 868-3593.