They have also collected recycling during the July 4th festivals in Columbus in 2006, 2007 and 2008, as well as the Columbus Day festival in Columbus in 2007, and they will be there again this year.

This is a hands-on group. RE-Expressions volunteers handled&bsp; the monthly paper drive in Columbus from February until July this year, while helping the Town of Columbus plan its new Recycle Center, (which will open September 15.)

Recycling education is important to these efforts. Each year the group has tried to teach the public that recycling can be easy. RE-Expressions has held games and contests to help children learn the importance of recycling.

Literature has been given out at events and is always available. The group&39;s organizers say they want to make it easy for residents to participate in the recycling effort.

RE-Expressions has received a lot of support from the community, organizers say. The Blue Ridge BBQ festival has provided the recycling cans. Stott&squo;s Paving has provided the trucks to carry recycle cans and recyclables for all of the activities. Both Timken Co. and the Thermal Belt Rotary Club have contributed money or heavy duty recycling cans. Home Depot has given discounts on material used for collecting recycles.

According to organizers, RE-Expressions is a group that works very hard, but also quietly. The group is now preparing to move on to the next area in the county that needs its help organizing recycling. Volunteers are needed.

If you are interested in helping with ideas, donations, or time and effort, call Ernie Kan at (828) 899-5111.

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