ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- A local cemetery was alive with helping hands last Friday as volunteers from around Robins kicked off cleanup efforts in honor of National Earth Day.

Eleven participants - mostly Robins civilians - were on hand with rakes, garbage bags, weed trimmers and plenty of sunscreen to revitalize historic Bryant Cemetery, one of two cleanups that had been planned for the day.
 
A similar effort at King Cemetery was cancelled due to the discovery of poison ivy, according to Shannie Williams, 78th Civil Engineer Group.

Though not officially observed until April 22, Earth Day events are scheduled through mid-May in a series of initiatives themed, "Conserve Today, Save Tomorrow."

Williams began working with Air Force Reserve Command to participate in Earth Day events back in 2005, along with other base personnel.

The cemetery cleanup has been a part of that endeavor for the past five years.

Bryant Cemetery - located across from Robins on South First Street - is historically significant to both the base and the city with graves dating back to the 19th century, Williams said.

Everyday tips for our planet

When you have ice left in your cup from a restaurant, don't throw it in the trash. Pour it on a plant. · When washing your hands, turn the water off while you lather.
 
When washing dishes by hand, don't let the water run while rinsing. Fill the sink basin or a large container and rinse when all of the dishes have been soaped and scrubbed. Use the garbage disposal sparingly; compost vegetable food waste instead and save gallons every time.
 
Shorten your shower by a minute or two, and you'll save up to 150 gallons per month. Turn off the water while you wash your hair to save up to 150 gallons a month.
 
Wash your car on the lawn, and you'll water your lawn at the same time. Also use a hose nozzle or turn off the water while you wash your car; it will save you up to 100 gallons every time. An alternate idea is to use a commercial car wash that recycles water.