Helen’s Walk/Run

The end of April is among us, and with its arrival comes the annual Helen Keller’s 5K Walk/Run.  This year, the race took place on April 23, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The race is organized by Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults, an organization geared towards helping people with combined visual and auditory difficulties lead normal lifestyles.

“I think it’s important for us to participate in these kinds of events because not only is it helpful to our own health, but it also gives us the chance to make a positive impact on the world as well,” said junior Idell Rutman.

This year, the HKNC announced a goal of $60,000 dollars, all of which will be used to help members of the HKNC continue to pursue their goals and dreams.  People were encouraged to join the race, which took place in Sands Point, or donate online if they were unable to participate in person.

“Unfortunately, a lot of people tend to forget that they have the chance to help others by simply running in a race or contributing money.  If more of us participated in these types of events, we would have an easier time making the world a better place” said junior Emily Rubens.

The HKNC has been around for the past fifty years, and it operates out of its headquarters location in Sands Point.  Because of its close proximity to the school, it is frequently involved in town activities and events.

Through their countless events, the HKNC has the chance to raise money and help those who were born with life-altering disabilities.  Helen’s Walk is just another opportunity for them to achieve this goal.

~ Niki Gillman

Clean Green Main Street

On Saturday, April 22, Port Washington residents gathered at the train station to celebrate Earth Day.  The annual event Clean Green Main Street serves to give people the opportunity to clean up and help keep our town beautiful.  People participating in the event picked up litter all over Main Street, planted flowers, and put new mulch in the tree beds.  People spread out all along Main Street to ensure it was as clean as possible.

“I was really excited that I got to be a part of this event,” said junior Idell Rutman.  “It was very rewarding to clean up the town with the whole community.”

Coordinators helped to plan and advertise the event.  They teamed up with Executive Director of Residents for a More Beautiful Port Washington Mindy Germain to make it the event the best it could be.

The outcome was over 300 people joining together to celebrate the town and clean up.  While it was only a small event, it really made a difference in cleaning up our town.  There was live music from Bach to Rock and refreshments donated from Coffeed.  Many local businesses were glad to chip in and help the cause.

“It was upsetting to see how much litter is on Main Street, but I’m glad that our town is committed to making a difference,” said junior Julia Kim.  “We have a lot of work to do still but this was a step in the right direction!”

~ Saige Gitlin