Neighborhood pulls together to clean up trash, graffiti

Richmond District residents, members of George Washington High School's JROTC and employees of the SF Department of Public Works (DPW) and Norcal gathered at the Richmond Recreation Center Oct. 4 for a neighborhood cleanup.

Also, the anti-graffiti team from Pre-Trial Diversion scrubbed and repainted to remove unsightly graffiti.

Working under bright blue skies, the workers picked up trash, swept leaves and collected household garbage, recyclables and compostables. By day's end, more than two tons of trash, leaves and debris had been collected.

This was the second cleanup of the year organized by Keep Our Neighborhood Clean (KONC), a program of the Richmond District Neighborhood Center (RDNC).

The cleanup also became an impromptu swap-meet, with neighbors dropping off old furniture and bric-a-brac, and picking up something in return. Sean McGrew, director of the Richmond Recreation Center, rescued a beautiful mirror for the center's boxing class, as well as some needed office equipment.

Local businesses donated generously to the cleanup. Starbucks, Safeway at the Beach, House of Bagels, Gastronom Market and Euro donated coffee and snacks for the hungry volunteers. And to remind everyone of the importance of a clean environment, PG&E donated low-energy CFL light bulbs.

In September, DPW reduced its street sweeping in the Richmond District from every week to twice a month. This has caused litter and leaves to accumulate. Removing leaves from the street was especially important, since they tend to clog the drains, which in turn leads to flooding during the rainy season.

"Everyone's hard work is greatly appreciated, especially in view of the cutbacks," said Jean Barish, KONC co-founder and RDNC board member. "We want everyone to understand the benefits of reducing litter. Clean streets are such an important part of a livable neighborhood."

Some tips to keeping the Richmond clean include:

- Always toss trash in garbage cans;

- Set a good example by not littering;

- Do not dump garbage on the street corners or in city trash cans and take advantage of Sunset Scavenger's free furniture and household waste pickup by calling (415) 330-1300;

- Use e-recycling, not the sidewalk, to get rid of electronic waste;

- Report illegal dumping and graffiti by calling 311.

KONC is looking for volunteers to help plan future neighborhood cleanups. for more information, contact koncsf@hotmail.com.